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Executive Summary: The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Community Services (OCS), announces that applications will be accepted for new grants pursuant to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary's Compassion Capital Fund (CCF) authorized under Title XI Section 1110 of the Social Security Act governing Social Services Research and Demonstration activities and the Department of Labor, HHS, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006, Public Law (P.L.) 109-149. Pursuant to this announcement, OCS will award funds to help build the capacity of faith-based and community organizations that address the needs of distressed communities. A distressed community is defined as a neighborhood or geographic community with an unemployment rate and/or poverty rate equal to or greater than the State or national rate. The Targeted Capacity Building Program will focus on capacity building among organizations addressing the following programmatic service areas: help for at-risk youth; help for the homeless; marriage education and preparation services to help couples who choose marriage for themselves develop the skills and knowledge to form and sustain healthy marriages; or social services to those living in rural communities. I. FUNDING OPPORTUNITY DESCRIPTION Legislative Authority The Administration for Children and Families (ACF), Office of Community Services (OCS), announces that applications will be accepted for new grants pursuant to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary's Compassion Capital Fund (CCF) authorized under Title XI Section 1110 of the Social Security Act governing Social Services Research and Demonstration activities and the Department of Labor, HHS, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2006, Public Law (P.L.) 109-149. Pursuant to this announcement, OCS will award funds to help build the capacity of faith-based and community organizations that address the needs of distressed communities. A distressed community is defined as a neighborhood or geographic community with an unemployment rate and/or poverty rate equal to or greater than the State or national rate. The Targeted Capacity Building program will focus on capacity building among organizations addressing the following programmatic service areas: help for at-risk youth; help for the homeless; marriage education and preparation services to help couples who choose marriage for themselves develop the skills and knowledge to form and sustain healthy marriages; or social services to those living in rural communities. A. Background Faith-based and community organizations have a long history of providing an array of important services to people and communities in need of charitable services in the United States. These groups have unique strengths that the Federal Government cannot duplicate. They hold the trust of their community neighbors and leaders and understand the needs of the community and its systems. As a result, they are well positioned to understand the unique needs of at-risk youth, the homeless, those choosing to develop the skills and knowledge to form and sustain healthy marriages, and those living in rural communities in need of social services. Furthermore, the sense of mission from which these organizations work often translates into a unique approach to service delivery, a dedication to the service of others, and a cultural awareness specific to their surrounding communities. In recognition of this history and ability, President Bush believes it is in the public's interest to broaden Federal efforts to work with faith-based and community organizations, and he has made it a priority to ensure that these groups are treated equally with other organizations that apply for Federal funding. A key part of this effort to enhance and expand the participation of faith-based and community organizations in serving those in need is the B. Program Purpose and Objectives The purpose of the
The goal of the CCF Targeted Capacity Building program is to help promising organizations increase their corporate capability and infrastructure and bolster their sustainability. Such changes can be expected, ultimately, to allow organizations to serve more people more effectively through their increased ability to design revenue development strategies and/or improved internal governance and program management, for example. These grants are intended to expand the capacity of community and faith-based organizations to deliver social services in a secular manner through, among other things, an enhanced ability to compete for federal grants in the future. These grants cannot be used to provide direct client services. CCF monies must be used to build and improve organizational capability and cannot be used to support the provision of direct services provided by the organization to individuals, families, or other organizations. For example, CCF monies can be used to pay for the costs of an existing staff person only if, and to the extent that, such a person will work on organizational capacity building efforts that have been described in the grant application. CCF monies may not be used to supplant existing funds; that is, CCF monies should be used to "add value" to allow the organization to achieve more in terms of organizational capability and improved infrastructure than they could have without the funds. For example, CCF monies should not supplant existing training funds set aside to improve staff performance. Rather, approved CCF monies should allow the organization to go beyond the level they would achieve using the training funds as planned. As a program of ACF, CCF is intended to support organizations that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. As such, CCF funds can pay for capacity building activities that support social service programs and activities. For example, CCF funds may pay for trainings such as board development workshops. Additionally, CCF funds may purchase equipment or supplies such as computers or computer software that can improve program services. CCF funds may not pay for capacity building activities that support medical/health care related activities or items such as medical equipment or supplies or medically oriented trainings, certifications, or licensures. Please note that addressing revenue development strategies as part of organizational capacity building does not include implementing any direct fundraising activities paid for with the use of Federal funds. Direct fundraising activities using CCF funds are strictly prohibited as a violation of Federal regulation. Costs of organized fundraising, including financial campaigns, endowment drives, solicitation of gifts and bequests, and similar expenses incurred solely to raise capital or obtain contributions are unallowable (OMB Circulars A-122, A-21, A-87). Some examples of unallowable fundraising include: contacting organizations or individuals for funds (this includes paying for a lunch meeting); printing and mailing direct mail flyers or brochures that include an option for donors to make donations; donor development software that enables a direct online donation link (such software is not itself problematic; it is the online donation link feature that may not be funded with CCF funds); or hiring a fundraising consultant to plan specific events or make requests for funding. For those applicants applying under marriage education, applicants should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the information and services provided by domestic violence coalitions within their community. For more information on healthy marriage, please access http://www.acf.hhs.gov/healthymarriage or http://www.healthymarriageinfo.org. ACF encourages and will grant preference to those eligible organizations whose annual operational budget is less than $500,000 or whose Tribal membership is less than 5,000. Please see Section III.3, Other Eligibility Information, Section IV.2, Content and Form of Application Submission, Section V, Application Review Information, and Section V.2, Review and Selection Process, for a detailed description. CCF grants are intended to expand the capacity of community and faith-based organizations to deliver social services in a secular manner through, among other things, an enhanced ability to compete for Federal grants in the future. These grants cannot be used to provide direct client services. Organizations shall not use direct Federal grants or contracts under the A faith-based organization receiving HHS funds retains its independence from Federal, State, and local governments, and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, and expression of its religious beliefs. For example, a faith-based organization may use space in its facilities to provide secular programs or services funded with Federal funds without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols. In addition, a faith-based organization that receives Federal funds retains its authority over its internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its organization's name, select its board members on a religious basis, and include religious references in its organization's mission statements and other governing documents in accordance with all CCF program requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirements governing the conduct of HHS-funded activities. Regulations pertaining to the Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the prohibition against Federal funding of inherently religious activities, can be found at either 45 CFR 87.1 or the HHS website at http://www.os.hhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf. Because of the importance of the services provided under this announcement, it is important that ACF is able to measure the impact of Federal funds. In accepting an award from CCF, grantees are agreeing to work cooperatively with ACF evaluators and/or contractors so that the critical effects of the program can be assessed.
II. AWARD INFORMATION
Awards under this announcement are subject to the availability of funds. III. ELIGIBILITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants:
Faith-based and community organizations that meet the statutory eligibility requirements are eligible to apply under this announcement. Foreign entities are not eligible under this announcement. Other eligible entities include:
Previous CCF Targeted Capacity Building grantees are eligible to apply for funding under this announcement as long as the social service priority area addressed by their Fiscal Year (FY) 2007 proposed project differs from the social service priority area addressed in their previously approved project(s). Previously funded grantees must indicate how their proposed capacity building activities and social service priority area are significantly different from their previously funded project(s). This requirement does not apply to applicants that are Native American Tribal Governments, Federally recognized Indian Tribes, Consortia of Indian Tribes, or Incorporated non-Federally recognized Tribes whose Tribal membership is fewer than 5,000. Applicants applying under the rural communities social service priority area must demonstrate that their service area is designated as rural. Applicants must include a separate Rural Designation Assurance that is signed by an authorized individual. (See Section VIII.) Through this assurance, they must demonstrate that their service area is not considered a Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) by OMB. Applicants must complete both of the following steps: 1) Show that the county or counties that make up the applicant's service area are not listed as MSAs at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/bulletins/fy04/b04-03_appendix.pdf; and 2) Show that the city or cities within the applicant's service area are not listed as MSAs at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/bulletins/fy04/b04-03_appendix.pdf. Note: If an applicant's service area is within a city or cities that are listed as Micropolitan Statistical Areas at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/bulletins/fy04/b04-03_appendix.pdf, the applicant is eligible to apply under the rural communities priority area. ACF encourages and will grant preference to organizations whose annual operational budget is less than $500,000 or whose Tribal membership is less than 5,000. ACF encourages and will grant preference to organizations whose program activities directly serve an area and/or target population that have been significantly affected by hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and/or Wilma. Please see Section IV for required documentation supporting eligibility or funding restrictions if any are applicable. 2. Cost Sharing or Matching: None 3. Other: Disqualification Factors
IV. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1. Address to Request Application Package: Barbara Ziegler-JohnsonAdministration for Children and Families Office of Community Services Operation Center Compassion Capital Fund Demonstration Program 1515 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 100 Arlington , VA 22209 Phone: 800-281-9519 Email: OCS@lcgnet.com 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: While applicants may be working in more than one social service priority area, applicants must select one social service priority area and label their application accordingly. The four social service priority areas are: at-risk youth; homelessness; healthy marriage; and rural communities. (Please see Section III, Eligibility Information, for detailed description on rural communities). Applications proposing projects covering more than one social service priority area will not be given a higher priority than those projects working in just one area. The application must be double-spaced and single-sided on 8.5" x 11" plain white paper, with 1'' margins on all sides. The application must use Times New Roman 12-point font. The Table of Contents must not exceed one page. The Project Narrative must not exceed nine pages. Pages submitted beyond the first nine pages in the Project Narrative section will be removed prior to panel review. The Appendix must not exceed five pages. Pages submitted beyond the first five in the Appendix section will be removed prior to panel review. The Appendix includes any additional supporting documentation. All pages of the application must be sequentially numbered. The Budget, Narrative Budget Justification, Standard Forms for Assurances, Certifications, and Disclosures are not included in the Project Narrative and Appendix page limitations. Applicants should not send pamphlets, brochures, or other printed material along with their applications. These materials, if submitted, will not be included in the review process. D-U-N-S Requirement All applicants must have a D&B Data Universal Numbering System (D-U-N-S) number. On June 27, 2003, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) published in the Federal Register a new Federal policy applicable to all Federal grant applicants. The policy requires Federal grant applicants to provide a D-U-N-S number when applying for Federal grants or cooperative agreements on or after October 1, 2003. The D-U-N-S number will be required whether an applicant is submitting a paper application or using the government-wide electronic portal, Grants.gov. A D-U-N-S number will be required for every application for a new award or renewal/continuation of an award, including applications or plans under formula, entitlement, and block grant programs, submitted on or after October 1, 2003. Please ensure that your organization has a D-U-N-S number. You may acquire a D-U-N-S number at no cost by calling the dedicated toll-free D-U-N-S number request line at 1-866-705-5711 or you may request a number on-line at http://www.dnb.com. Proof of Non-Profit Status Non-profit organizations applying for funding are required to submit proof of their non-profit status. Proof of non-profit status is any one of the following:
When applying electronically, we strongly suggest that you attach your proof of non-profit status with your electronic application. Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their applications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Forms, Assurances, and Certifications The project description should include all the information requirements described in the specific evaluation criteria outlined in this program announcement under Section V. Application Review Information. In addition to the project description, the applicant needs to complete all of the Standard Forms required as part of the application process for awards under this announcement. Applicants seeking financial assistance under this announcement must file the appropriate Standard Forms (SFs) as described in this section. All applicants must submit an SF-424, Application for Federal Assistance. For non-construction programs, applicants must also submit an SF-424A, Budget Information and an SF-424B, Assurances. For construction programs, applicants must also submit SF-424C, Budget Information and SF-424D, Assurances. For research programs that involve human subjects, the Protection of Human Subjects Assurance Identification/IRB Certification/Declaration of Exemption form must be submitted. All forms may be reproduced for use in submitting applications. Applicants must sign and return the standard forms with their application. Applicants must furnish, prior to award, an executed copy of the Certification Regarding Lobbying. Applicants must sign and return the certification with their application. The Certification Regarding Lobbying may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. (If any funds have been paid or will be paid to any person for influencing or attempting to influence an officer or employee of any agency, a Member of Congress, an officer or employee of Congress, or an employee of a Member of Congress in connection with this commitment providing for the United States to insure or guarantee a loan, the applicant shall complete and submit Standard Form (SF)-LLL, "Disclosure Form to Report Lobbying," in accordance with its instructions.) Applicants must also understand that they will be held accountable for the smoking prohibition included within Public Law (P.L.) 103-227, Title XII Environmental Tobacco Smoke (also known as the PRO-KIDS Act of 1994). A copy of the Federal Register notice that implements the smoking prohibition is included with this form. By signing and submitting the application, applicants are providing the necessary certification and are not required to return it. Applicants must make the appropriate certification of their compliance with all Federal statutes relating to nondiscrimination. By signing and submitting the application, applicants are providing the necessary certification and are not required to return it. Complete the standard forms and the associated certifications and assurances based on the instructions on the forms. The forms and certifications may be found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Assurances Voluntary Budget or Tribal Membership Size Assurance The voluntary budget or Tribal membership size assurance is not required for a complete application; however, ACF encourages any eligible non-profit organization, including Native American Tribal organizations, whose annual operational budget is less than $500,000 or Native American Tribal Governments, Federally recognized Indian Tribes, Consortia of Indian Tribes, or Incorporated non-Federally recognized Tribes whose Tribal membership is fewer than 5,000 to include the assurance with its application in order to receive an additional five points in the scoring of the application. In the absence of the appropriate assurance signed by the authorizing official, no additional points will be granted. By signing the voluntary budget or Tribal membership size assurance the authorizing official is attesting to the validity of all statements on the assurance. Please see Section V.1 and Section VIII for instructions on completing the Voluntary Budget or Tribal Membership Size Assurance for a detailed description of the relevant criteria that will be evaluated. Rural Designation Assurance The Rural Designation Assurance is required for a complete application under the rural communities social service priority area. In the absence of a signed designated assurance, the application may be deemed ineligible for Federal funding. By signing the Rural Designation Assurance the authorizing official is attesting to the validity of all statements on the assurance. Please see Section III.1 and Section VIII for instructions on completing the information necessary for the Rural Designation Assurance. Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their applications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. Please see Section V.1 for instructions on preparing the full project description. Please reference Section IV.3 for details about acknowledgement of received applications. Electronic Submission Applicants to ACF may submit their applications in either electronic or paper format. To submit an application electronically, please use the http://www.Grants.gov site. When using www.Grants.gov, applicants will be able to download a copy of the application package, complete it off-line, and then upload and submit the application via the www.Grants.gov site. ACF will not accept grant applications via facsimile or email. Acceptable electronic formats for the application attachments (narratives, charts, etc.) must use the following standard technologies, i.e., Microsoft (Word and Excel), Word Perfect, Adobe PDF, Jpeg, and Gif. IMPORTANT NOTE: Before submitting an electronic application, applicants must complete the organization registration process as well as obtain and register "electronic signature credentials" for the Authorized Organization Representative (AOR). Since this process may take more than five business days, it is important to start this process early, well in advance of the application deadline. Be sure to complete all www.Grants.gov registration processes listed on the Organization Registration Checklist, which can be found at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/registration_checklist.html. Please note the following if planning to submit an application electronically via www.Grants.gov:
Hard Copy Submission Applicants that are submitting their application in paper format should submit one original and two copies of the complete application. The original and each of the two copies must include all required forms, certifications, assurances, and appendices, be signed by an authorized representative, and be unbound. The original copy of the application must have original signature(s). Non-Federal Reviewers Since ACF will be using non-Federal reviewers in the review process, applicants have the option of omitting from the application copies (not the original) specific salary rates or amounts for individuals specified in the application budget as well as Social Security Numbers, if otherwise required for individuals. The copies may include summary salary information. If applicants are submitting their application electronically, ACF will omit the same specific salary rate information from copies made for use during the review and selection process. 3. Submission Dates and Times: Due Date for Applications: 04/10/2007 Explanation of Due Dates The due date for receipt of applications is referenced above. Applications received after 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date will be classified as late and will not be considered in the current competition. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that applications are mailed or hand-delivered or submitted electronically well in advance of the application due date and time. Applications that are submitted by mail must be received no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above at the address listed in Section IV.6. Hand Delivery Applications hand carried by applicants, applicant couriers, other representatives of the applicant, or by overnight/express mail couriers must be received on or before the due date referenced above, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., eastern time, at the address referenced in Section IV.6., between Monday and Friday (excluding Federal holidays). Electronic Submission Applications submitted electronically via Grants.gov must be submitted no later than 4:30 p.m., eastern time, on the due date referenced above. ACF cannot accommodate transmission of applications by facsimile or email. Late Applications Applications that do not meet the requirements above are considered late applications. ACF shall notify each late applicant that its application will not be considered in the current competition. ANY APPLICATION RECEIVED AFTER 4:30 P.M., EASTERN TIME, ON THE DUE DATE WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED FOR COMPETITION. Extension of Deadlines ACF may extend application deadlines when circumstances such as acts of God (floods, hurricanes, etc.) occur; when there are widespread disruptions of mail service; or in other rare cases. A determination to extend or waive deadline requirements rests with the Chief Grants Management Officer. Receipt acknowledgement for application packages will not be provided to applicants who submit their package via mail, courier services, or by hand delivery. Applicants will receive an electronic acknowledgement for applications that are submitted via http://www.Grants.gov. Checklist You may use the checklist below as a guide when preparing your application package.
Additional Forms Private, non-profit organizations are encouraged to submit with their applications the survey titled "Survey on Ensuring Equal Opportunity for Applicants" found under the "Survey" heading at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html.
4. Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs: State Single Point of Contact (SPOC) This program is covered under Executive Order (Exec. Order) 12372, "Intergovernmental Review of Federal Programs," and 45 CFR Part 100, "Intergovernmental Review of Department of Health and Human Services Programs and Activities." Under the Exec. Order, States may design their own processes for reviewing and commenting on proposed Federal assistance under covered programs. As of August 1, 2006, the following jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Exec. Order process: Arkansas, California, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, West Virginia, Wisconsin, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands. As these jurisdictions have elected to participate in the Executive Order process, they have established SPOCs. Applicants from participating jurisdictions should contact their SPOC, as soon as possible, to alert them of prospective applications and receive instructions. Applicants must submit all required materials, if any, to the SPOC and indicate the date of this submittal (or the date of contact if no submittal is required) on the Standard Form 424, item 16a. Under 45 CFR 100.8(a)(2), a SPOC has 60 days from the application deadline to comment on proposed new or competing continuation awards. SPOCs are encouraged to eliminate the submission of routine endorsements as official recommendations. Additionally, SPOCs are requested to clearly differentiate between mere advisory comments and those official State process recommendations, which may trigger the "accommodate or explain" rule. Comments submitted directly to ACF should be addressed to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Grants Management, Division of Discretionary Grants, 370 L'Enfant Promenade SW., 6th Floor, Washington, DC 20447. Although the remaining jurisdictions have chosen not to participate in this process, entities that meet the eligibility requirements of the Program Announcement are still eligible to apply for a grant even if a State, Territory, or Commonwealth, etc., does not have a SPOC. Therefore, applicants from these jurisdictions, or for projects administered by Federally-recognized Indian Tribes, need take no action in regard to Exec. Order 12372. The official list, including addresses, of the jurisdictions that have elected to participate in Exec. Order 12372 can be found on the following URL: http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/grants/spoc.html. 5. Funding Restrictions: Fundraising is not an allowable cost under this program. Grant awards will not allow reimbursement of pre-award costs. Construction and purchase of real property are not allowable activities or expenditures under this grant award. The costs of organized fundraising or solicitation with Federal awards is an unallowable cost according to OMB Circulars A-122, A-87 and A-21. These grants are intended to expand the capacity of community and faith-based organizations to deliver social services in a secular manner through, among other things, an enhanced ability to compete for Federal grants in the future. These grants cannot be used to provide direct client services. Direct service provision or augmentation or supplanting direct service delivery funds as part of an applicant's proposed activities are not considered capacity building, and therefore are not allowable costs. As a program of ACF, CCF is intended to support organizations that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. As such, CCF funds can pay for capacity building activities that support social service programs and activities. For example, CCF funds may pay for trainings such as board development workshops. Additionally, CCF funds may purchase equipment or supplies such as computers or computer software that can improve program services. CCF funds may not pay for capacity building activities that support medical/health care related activities or items such as medical equipment or supplies or medically oriented trainings, certifications, or licensures. An awarded grant application and release of funds does not constitute or imply compliance with Federal regulations; grantees are responsible for ensuring that their activities comply with Federal regulations. Because of the importance of the services provided under this announcement, it is important that ACF is able to measure the impact of Federal funds. In accepting an award from CCF, grantees agree to work cooperatively with ACF evaluators and/or contractors so that the critical effects of the program can be assessed. 6. Other Submission Requirements: Please see Sections IV.2 and IV.3 for deadline information and other application requirements. Submit applications to one of the following addresses: Submission by Mail Barbara Ziegler-Johnson Hand Delivery Eduardo Hernandez Electronic Submission Please see Section IV.2 for guidelines and requirements when submitting applications electronically via http://www.Grants.gov. V. APPLICATION REVIEW INFORMATION The Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (P.L. 104-13) Public reporting burden for this collection of information is estimated to average 35 hours per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, gathering and maintaining the data needed and reviewing the collection information. The project description is approved under OMB control number 0970-0139, which expires 4/30/2007. An agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, a collection of information unless it displays a currently valid OMB control number. 1. Criteria: Part I THE PROJECT DESCRIPTION OVERVIEW PURPOSE The project description provides the majority of information by which an application is evaluated and ranked in competition with other applications for available assistance. The project description should be concise and complete. It should address the activity for which Federal funds are being requested. Supporting documents should be included where they can present information clearly and succinctly. In preparing the project description, information that is responsive to each of the requested evaluation criteria must be provided. Awarding offices use this and other information in making their funding recommendations. It is important, therefore, that this information be included in the application in a manner that is clear and complete. GENERAL EXPECTATIONS AND INSTRUCTIONS ACF is particularly interested in specific project descriptions that focus on outcomes and convey strategies for achieving intended performance. Project descriptions are evaluated on the basis of substance and measurable outcomes, not length. Extensive exhibits are not required. Cross-referencing should be used rather than repetition. Supporting information concerning activities that will not be directly funded by the grant or information that does not directly pertain to an integral part of the grant-funded activity should be placed in an appendix. Pages should be numbered and a table of contents should be included for easy reference. Part II GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR PREPARING A FULL PROJECT DESCRIPTION INTRODUCTION Applicants that are required to submit a full project description shall prepare the project description statement in accordance with the following instructions while being aware of the specified evaluation criteria. The text options give a broad overview of what the project description should include while the evaluation criteria identify the measures that will be used to evaluate applications. OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE Clearly identify the physical, economic, social, financial, institutional, and/or other problem(s) requiring a solution. The need for assistance must be demonstrated and the principal and subordinate objectives of the project must be clearly stated; supporting documentation, such as letters of support and testimonials from concerned interests other than the applicant, may be included. Any relevant data based on planning studies should be included or referred to in the endnotes/footnotes. Incorporate demographic data and participant/beneficiary information, as needed. In developing the project description, the applicant may volunteer or be requested to provide information on the total range of projects currently being conducted and supported (or to be initiated), some of which may be outside the scope of the program announcement. RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED Identify the results and benefits to be derived. APPROACH Outline a plan of action that describes the scope and detail of how the proposed work will be accomplished. Account for all functions or activities identified in the application. Cite factors that might accelerate or decelerate the work and state your reason for taking the proposed approach rather than others. Describe any unusual features of the project such as design or technological innovations, reductions in cost or time, or extraordinary social and community involvement. Provide quantitative monthly or quarterly projections of the accomplishments to be achieved for each function or activity in such terms as the number of people to be served and the number of activities accomplished. When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list them in chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments and their target dates. If any data is to be collected, maintained, and/or disseminated, clearance may be required from OMB. This clearance pertains to any "collection of information that is conducted or sponsored by ACF." Provide a list of organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key individuals who will work on the project along with a short description of the nature of their effort or contribution.When accomplishments cannot be quantified by activity or function, list them in chronological order to show the schedule of accomplishments and their target dates. If any data is to be collected, maintained, and/or disseminated, clearance may be required from the OMB. This clearance pertains to any "collection of information that is conducted or sponsored by ACF." Provide a list of organizations, cooperating entities, consultants, or other key individuals who will work on the project along with a short description of the nature of their effort or contribution. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION The following are requests for additional information that must be included in the application:
BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION Provide a budget with line-item detail and detailed calculations for each budget object class identified on the Budget Information Form (SF-424A or SF-424C). Detailed calculations must include estimation methods, quantities, unit costs, and other similar quantitative detail sufficient for the calculation to be duplicated. If matching is a requirement, include a breakout by the funding sources identified in Block 15 of the SF-424. Provide a narrative budget justification that describes how the categorical costs are derived. Discuss the necessity, reasonableness, and allocation of the proposed costs.
EVALUATION CRITERIA: The corresponding score values indicate the relative importance that ACF places on each evaluation criterion; however, applicants need not develop their applications precisely according to the order presented. Application components may be organized such that a reviewer will be able to follow a seamless and logical flow of information (i.e., from a broad overview of the project to more detailed information about how it will be conducted). In considering how applicants will carry out the responsibilities addressed under this announcement, competing applications for financial assistance will be reviewed and evaluated against the following criteria: OBJECTIVES AND NEED FOR ASSISTANCE - 30 points (a) Service Area and Target Population (5 Points). An application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant identifies the specific service area for project implementation and the target population it serves as it pertains to one of the four social service priority areas. An applicant indicates which one of the four social service priority areas of need (e.g., at-risk youth, homelessness, healthy marriage, or rural communities) it is applying under and how its proposed target population corresponds with the identified social service priority area. The applicant clearly defines the service area by ZIP Codes, city, county and/or physical boundaries of the service areas. The applicant clearly defines the target population through demographic information such as age, gender, race, etc. Applicants applying under the rural communities social service priority area must indicate the State, county(ies), and city(ies) of the service area. Refer to Section III.1, Eligible Applicants, for information on eligibility. Previously funded grantees must indicate how their proposed capacity building activities and social service priority area are significantly different from the previously funded project(s). This requirement does not apply to applicants that are Native American Tribal Governments, Federally recognized Indian Tribes, Consortia of Indian Tribes, or Incorporated non-Federally recognized Tribes whose Tribal membership is fewer than 5,000. (b) Needs of Service Area and Target Population (5 Points). As it pertains to one of the four social service priority areas, an application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant describes the specific needs of the targeted service area; describes the specific needs of the targeted population; documents that the proposed project will be implemented in a distressed community and/or engages organizations that serve low-income populations; and documents how an increase in an organization's capacity will allow them to address a vital need in their distressed community. A distressed community is defined as a neighborhood or geographic community with an unemployment rate and/or poverty rate equal to or greater than the State or national rate. The applicant documents that either the unemployment level or poverty level for the targeted neighborhood or community are equal to or greater than the State or national level. The applicant cites the most recent available statistics from published sources (e.g., the recent U.S. Census or updates, the State, county, city, election district) in support of its contention as compared to the State or national level. As of October 2006, the national unemployment rate was 4.4 percent according to statistics from the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics found at http://www.bls.gov. The official poverty rate in 2005 was 12.6 percent according to the Current Population Survey, 2006 Annual Social and Economic Supplement, the source of official poverty estimates found at http://www.census.gov/hhes/www/poverty/overview.html. (c) Applicant's Capacity Building Needs (10 Points). An application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant documents the capacity building needs of their organization to better address the identified service area, target population, and identified social service priority area (e.g., at-risk youth, homelessness, healthy marriage, or rural communities). The needs of the organization must be described in relationship to at least one of the five critical areas of organizational capacity building: 1) leadership development, 2) organizational development, 3) program development, 4) revenue development strategies, and 5) community engagement. (d) Project Objectives (10 Points). An application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant states all primary project objectives. Applications will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant clearly states specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely objectives for the proposed project and shows that the project will address the needs of the organization in at least one of the five critical areas of capacity building: 1) leadership development, 2) organizational development, 3) program development, 4) revenue development strategies, and 5) community engagement. Applications will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant presents a compelling need for strengthening their organizational capacity in the community APPROACH - 30 points Capacity Building Strategy. As it pertains to one of the four social service priority areas, an application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant describes a clear and detailed plan for developing organizational capacity in at least one of five critical areas of capacity building: 1) leadership development, 2) organizational development, 3) program development, 4) revenue development strategies, and 5) community engagement. Applications will be evaluated based on the extent to which the capacity building approach or strategy is thorough, logical, reasonable, and clearly linked to the project objectives. Previously funded grantees must indicate how their proposed capacity building activities and social service priority area are significantly different from the previously funded project(s). Keep in mind as a program of ACF, CCF is intended to support organizations that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. As such, CCF funds can pay for capacity building activities that support social service programs and activities. For example, CCF funds may pay for trainings such as board development workshops. Additionally, CCF funds may purchase equipment or supplies such as computers or computer software that can improve program services. CCF funds may not pay for capacity building activities that support medical/health care related activities or items such as medical equipment or supplies or medically oriented trainings, certifications, or licensures. RESULTS OR BENEFITS EXPECTED - 15 points An application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant: identifies the results or benefits expected to be derived from project activities; describes how the proposed project will affect the sustainability of their organization; explains any materials/tools used to evaluate the project; and clearly describes the relationship(s) among project objectives, capacity building strategy/activities and anticipated results and benefits expected. The results and benefits proposed by the applicant must be reasonable, specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, and timely. The results and benefits proposed by the applicant must be clearly linked to and supported by the proposed capacity building strategy and project objectives. ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILES - 15 points (a) Past Experience (10 Points). An application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant demonstrates experience in, and a proven track record of, addressing the needs of distressed community(ies) through the provision of social services in the social service priority area under which the applicant is applying. A distressed community is defined as a neighborhood or geographic community with an unemployment rate and/or poverty rate equal to or greater than the State or national rate. Applications will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant documents a history of service with the target population in the proposed project service area and within the social service priority area. In addition, applications will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant includes concrete examples of services and/or programs operated by the applicant organization. For those applicants applying under the social service priority area of healthy marriage, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of the information and services provided by domestic violence coalitions within their community. (b) Organizational Profile and Project Staff (5 Points). An application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant: describes how the proposed project fits into the structure of the applicant organization; provides evidence of facilities, fiscal controls, and other resources that are adequate to achieve project goals; includes a listing and detailed description of duties for all key positions required to carry out the project; includes the individuals proposed to fill the key positions; provides evidence demonstrating the skills, knowledge, and experience in performing proposed job duties for staff assigned to key positions; and includes the above information with regard to consultants or staff from other organizations proposed to work on the project. Applicants should refer to the requested supporting documentation in the organizational profiles subsection of Section V.1, General Instructions for Preparing a Full Project Description. BUDGET AND BUDGET JUSTIFICATION - 10 points (a) Project Budget (8 points). An application will be evaluated based on the extent to which the applicant includes a budget that is clear, easy to understand, and that provides a detailed justification for the amount requested. Applicants should refer to the budget information presented in the SF-424 and SF-424A and to the budget justification instructions in Section V.1, General Instructions for Preparing a Full Project Description. It is suggested that budget amounts and computations be presented in a columnar format: first column, object class categories; second column, Federal budget; and last column, total budget. The costs of organized fundraising or solicitation with Federal awards is an unallowable cost according to OMB Circulars A-122, A-87, and A-21. These grants are intended to expand the capacity of community and faith-based organizations to deliver social services in a secular manner through, among other things, an enhanced ability to compete for federal grants in the future. These grants cannot be used to provide direct client services. Direct service provision or augmentation or supplanting direct service delivery funds as part of an applicant's proposed program activities are not considered capacity building, and therefore, are not allowable costs. Applicants will be evaluated on the following:
(b) Last Two Years' Operating Budgets (2 points): An application will be evaluated on the extent to which the applicant demonstrates that the amount of CCF funds being requested is proportional to the size of the applicant's operating budgets during the last two years. For example, it would be unreasonable for an organization that operated with $10,000 in 2005 and $11,000 in 2006 to request $50,000 in Federal funds. Detailed breakdowns of the applicant's organizational operating budgets are not required. ADDITIONAL BONUS POINTS - 10 points (a) Voluntary Budget or Tribal Membership Assurance (5 points) The extent to which the application demonstrates that the applicant has an annual operational budget of less than $500,000, or a Tribal membership of less than 5,000 (see Section IV.2, Assurances). In the absence of the assurance statement as provided in Section VIII, signed by the authorized official, no additional points will be granted. (b) Affected by Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and/or Wilma (5 points) An application will be evaluated on the extent to which it explicitly demonstrates that the applicant's program activities will directly serve an area and/or target population that have been significantly affected by hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and/or Wilma. 2. Review and Selection Process: No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application. Each application will be screened to determine whether it was received by the closing date and time (Section IV.3.) and whether the requested amount exceeds the ceiling or upper range value, whichever is appropriate (Section II.) No grant award will be made under this announcement on the basis of an incomplete application. FY 2006 grantees are eligible to apply for funding under this announcement as long as the social service priority area addressed by their FY 2007 proposed project differs from the social service priority area addressed in their previously approved project(s). Applicants must specify under which one of the four social service priority areas of need (e.g., at-risk youth, homelessness, healthy marriage, or rural communities) they are applying. Previously funded grantees must indicate how their proposed capacity building activities and social service priority area are significantly different from their previously funded project(s). This requirement does not apply to applicants that are Native American Tribal Governments, Federally recognized Indian Tribes, Consortia of Indian Tribes, or Incorporated non-Federally recognized Tribes whose Tribal membership is fewer than 5,000. Applications received by the due date will be reviewed and scored competitively. Experts in the field, generally persons from outside the Federal Government, will use the evaluation criteria listed in Section V of this announcement to review and score the applications. The results of this review will be a primary factor in making funding decisions. ACF may also solicit comments from Regional Office staff and other Federal agencies. ACF may consider a variety of factors in addition to the review criteria identified above, including geographic diversity/coverage and types of applicant organizations and social service priority areas, in order to ensure that the interests of the Federal Government are met in making the final selections. Furthermore, ACF may limit the number of awards made to the same or affiliated organizations although they would serve different geographic areas. CCF grants are intended to expand the capacity of community and faith-based organizations to deliver social services in a secular manner through, among other things, an enhanced ability to compete for Federal grants in the future. These grants cannot be used to provide direct client services. As stated, CCF monies must be used for organizational capacity building and not for direct services. Additionally, organizations that receive CCF funds may not engage in inherently religious activities, such as worship, religious instruction, or proselytization, as part of the programs or services funded with CCF funds. If an organization conducts such inherently religious activities, the activities must be offered separately, in time or location, from the programs or services funded with CCF assistance, and participation must be voluntary for beneficiaries of the CCF-funded programs or services. Some of the ways organizations may accomplish this include, but are not limited to, promoting only the Federally funded program in materials or websites created with any portion of the Federal funds. In addition, an organization receiving CCF funds shall not, in providing CCF-funded services, discriminate against a program beneficiary or prospective program beneficiary on the basis of religion or religious belief. A faith-based organization receiving HHS funds retains its independence from Federal, State, and local governments, and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, and expression of its religious beliefs. For example, a faith-based organization may use space in its facilities to provide secular programs or services funded with Federal funds without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols. In addition, a faith-based organization that receives Federal funds retains its authority over its internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its organization's name, select its board members on a religious basis, and include religious references in its organization's mission statements and other governing documents in accordance with all CCF program requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirements governing the conduct of HHS-funded activities. Regulations pertaining to the Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the prohibition against Federal funding of inherently religious activities, can be found at either 45 CFR 87.1 or the HHS website at http://www.os.hhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf. As a program of ACF, CCF is intended to support organizations that promote the economic and social well-being of families, children, individuals, and communities. As such, CCF funds can pay for capacity building activities that support social service programs and activities. For example, CCF funds may pay for trainings such as board development workshops. Additionally, CCF funds may purchase equipment or supplies such as computers or computer software that can improve program services. CCF funds may not pay for capacity building activities that support medical/health care related activities or items such as medical equipment or supplies or medically oriented trainings, certifications, or licensures. ACF encourages and will grant preference to those eligible organizations whose annual operational budget is less than $500,000, or whose Tribal membership is fewer than 5,000. ACF encourages and will grant preference to organizations whose program activities directly serve an area and/or target population that have been significantly affected by hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and/or Wilma. Please see Section I, Funding Opportunity Description; Section III.3, Other Information on Eligibility; Section IV.2, Content and Form of Application Submission; and Section V.1, Criteria for a detailed description. Please reference Section IV.2 for information on non-Federal reviewers in the review process. Approved but Unfunded Applications
Applications that are approved but unfunded may be held over for funding in the next funding cycle, pending the availability of funds, for a period not to exceed one year. VI. AWARD ADMINISTRATION INFORMATION 1. Award Notices: The successful applicants will be notified through the issuance of a Financial Assistance Award document, which sets forth the amount of funds granted, the terms and conditions of the grant, the effective date of the grant, the budget period for which initial support will be given, the non-Federal share to be provided (if applicable), and the total project period for which support is contemplated. The Financial Assistance Award will be signed by the Grants Officer and transmitted via postal mail. Following the finalization of funding decisions, organizations whose applications will not be funded will be notified by letter, signed by the Program Office head. 2. Administrative and National Policy Requirements: Grantees are subject to the requirements in 45 CFR Part 74 (non-governmental) or 45 CFR Part 92 (governmental). Direct Federal grants, sub-award funds, or contracts under this ACF program shall not be used to support inherently religious activities such as religious instruction, worship, or proselytization. Therefore, organizations must take steps to separate, in time or location, their inherently religious activities from the services funded under this program. Regulations pertaining to the Equal Treatment for Faith-Based Organizations, which includes the prohibition against Federal funding of inherently religious activities, can be found at the HHS web site at: http://www.hhs.gov/fbci/waisgate21.pdf. A faith-based organization receiving HHS funds retains its independence from Federal, State, and local governments, and may continue to carry out its mission, including the definition, practice, and expression of its religious beliefs. For example, a faith-based organization may use space in its facilities to provide secular programs or services funded with Federal funds without removing religious art, icons, scriptures, or other religious symbols. In addition, a faith-based organization that receives Federal funds retains its authority over its internal governance, and it may retain religious terms in its organization's name, select its board members on a religious basis, and include religious references in its organization's mission statements and other governing documents in accordance with all program requirements, statutes, and other applicable requirements governing the conduct of HHS funded activities. Faith-based and community organizations may reference the "Guidance to Faith-Based and Community Organizations on Partnering with the Federal Government" at: http://www.whitehouse.gov/government/fbci/guidance/index.html. HHS Grants Policy Statement The HHS Grants Policy Statement (GPS) is the Department of Health and Human Services new single policy guide for discretionary grants and cooperative agreements. Unlike previous HHS policy documents, the GPS is intended to be shared with and used by grantees. It became effective October 1, 2006 and is applicable to all Operating Divisions (OPDIVS), such as the Administration for Children and Families (ACF), except the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The GPS covers basic grants processes, standard terms and conditions and points of contact as well as important OPDIV-specific requirements. Appendices include a glossary of terms and a list of standard abbreviations for ease of reference. The GPS may be accessed at http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html. 3. Reporting Requirements: Grantees will be required to submit program progress and financial reports (SF-269 found at: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/grants/grants_resources.html) throughout the project period. Program progress and financial reports are due 30 days after the reporting period. Final programmatic and financial reports are due 90 days after the close of the project period. Final reports may be submitted in hard copy to the Grants Management Office Contact listed in Section VII of this announcement. Program Progress Reports: Semi-AnnuallyFinancial Reports: Semi-Annually Original reports and one copy should be mailed to: Administration for Children and Families VII. AGENCY CONTACTS Program Office Contact: Thom Campbell Grants Management Office Contact: Barbara Ziegler-Johnson VIII. OTHER INFORMATION KEY DEFINITIONS For the purposes of this program announcement, the following are frequently used terms that may require further clarification: Capacity Building - The process of implementing activities critical to the long-term viability of organizations to increase the effectiveness of programmatic activities and organizational operations. The goal of capacity building is to increase organizational infrastructure and bolster sustainability, ultimately enabling the organization to serve more people more effectively. CFR - Code of Federal Regulations Critical Areas of Capacity Building - There are five CCF-recognized critical areas of organizational capacity building: 1) leadership development, 2) organizational development, 3) program development, 4) revenue development strategies, and 5) community engagement. Direct Fundraising - The costs of organized fundraising, including financial campaigns, endowment drives, solicitation of gifts and bequests, and similar expenses incurred solely to raise capital or obtain contributions. Direct fundraising is unallowable according to OMB Circulars A-122, A-21, A-87. Adherence to this regulation is mandated in 45 CFR 74.27. Using CCF funds for any direct fundraising activity is a violation of Federal regulation and strictly prohibited. Some examples of unallowable fundraising include: contacting organizations or individuals for funds (this includes paying for a lunch meeting); printing and mailing direct mail flyers or brochures that include the option for donors to make donations; donor development software that enables a direct online donation link (such software is not itself problematic; it is the online donation link feature that may not be funded with CCF funds); or hiring a fundraising consultant to plan specific fundraising events or make requests for funding. Distressed Community - A neighborhood or geographic community with an unemployment rate and/or poverty rate equal to or greater than the State or national rate. Objective - A specific, measurable accomplishment or statement of program achievement within a specified timeframe that can be used to determine program progress toward the CCF goal of capacity building. Social Service Priority Areas - The programmatic service areas upon which the Revenue Development Strategies - One of the five critical areas of organizational capacity building that can assist with organizational sustainability and diversifying funding sources. Revenue development strategies do not include implementing any direct fundraising activities with the use of Federal funds. See "Examples of Allowable Rural Communities - One of four recognized social service priority areas for the Additional information about this program and its purpose can be located on the following website: http://www.acf.hhs.gov/programs/ccf/. ASSURANCES Voluntary Budget or Tribal Membership Assurance As the authorized individual signing this grant application on behalf of (name of applicant), I hereby attest and certify that the most recent annual operational budget for (name of applicant) is less than $500,000, or that the Tribal membership of (name of applicant organization) is less than 5,000. Date:_______________________________________________________ Printed Name of Authorized Individual:____________________________ Signature of Authorized Individual:_______________________________ Rural Designation Assurance [NAME OF APPLICANT ORGANIZATION] is applying for funding under the CCF Targeted Capacity Building program in order to build its capacity to deliver social services in the following service areas (please use additional paper as necessary): Cities (List all cities) Counties (List all counties) ________________________ _________________________ ________________________ _________________________ ________________________ _________________________ ________________________ _________________________ ________________________ _________________________ ________________________ _________________________ ________________________ _________________________ As the authorized individual signing this grant application on behalf of [NAME OF APPLICANT ORGANIZATION], I hereby attest and certify that none of the service areas of the project, as listed above, are designated as Metropolitan Statistical Areas per the Office of Management and Budget as found at http://www.whitehouse.gov/omb/bulletins/fy04/b04-03_appendix.pdf. Therefore, [NAME OF APPLICANT ORGANIZATION] is eligible to apply for Printed Name of Authorized Individual:_________________________ Signature of Authorized Individual:____________________________ Date:__________________
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